Georges de Latour Private Reserve (1974)

About this wine

The 1974 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve showcases a bouquet of red fruit, mulberry, singed leather, espresso, and light terracotta aromas that meld together effortlessly. On the palate, it is beautifully balanced with fine-grain tannins and brown spices intermixed with dark berry fruit, leading to a persistent mocha and espresso-tinged finish. This wine is a testament to the exceptional 1974 vintage in Napa Valley, a year when California winemaking excelled. Crafted under the guidance of renowned winemaker André Tchelistcheff, this Cabernet Sauvignon has matured gracefully, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Napa Valley winemaking. Its enduring quality reflects the meticulous vineyard selection and winemaking techniques that have made Beaulieu Vineyard a benchmark for California Cabernet Sauvignon.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape variety originating from a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its deep color, robust tannins, and aging potential. In the 1974 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve, this grape was cultivated in Napa Valley's Rutherford region, particularly in BV Ranches No. 1 and No. 2, areas known for their well-draining alluvial soils ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. The 1974 vintage was notable for its exceptional quality, with winemaker André Tchelistcheff describing it as an 'outstanding' year, contributing to the wine's longevity and complexity. This vintage stands as a testament to the synergy between the Cabernet Sauvignon grape and Rutherford's unique terroir.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1974 Georges de Latour Private Reserve is a celebrated vintage from Beaulieu Vineyard, renowned for its exceptional quality and longevity.
• 🏰 Beaulieu Vineyard, established in 1900 by Georges de Latour and his wife Fernande, is one of Napa Valley's oldest wineries.
• 🌄 The name 'Beaulieu' means 'beautiful place' in French, inspired by Fernande's exclamation upon seeing the land.
• 👨‍🔬 André Tchelistcheff, a pivotal figure in American winemaking, joined Beaulieu Vineyard in 1938 and introduced the 'Georges de Latour Private Reserve' label.
• 🌞 The 1974 vintage is particularly notable for its balance and complexity, reflecting the ideal growing conditions of that year in Napa Valley.

Palate profile

Producer

Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) was founded in 1900 by Georges de Latour and his wife, Fernande, in Rutherford, California. The name "Beaulieu," meaning "beautiful place" in French, was inspired by Fernande's exclamation upon seeing the property. During Prohibition, BV thrived by producing sacramental wines for the Catholic Church, allowing it to expand significantly. In 1938, the winery hired André Tchelistcheff, a renowned winemaker who introduced innovative techniques and elevated BV's reputation, particularly with the creation of the "Georges de Latour Private Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, BV remains a cornerstone of Napa Valley's winemaking heritage, continuing to produce acclaimed wines from its historic vineyards.